Policing involves a special trust given to us by the public to uphold and enforce the law. As servants of the public, policing entails and requires us to have thousands of interactions with the public and the community we serve. Often times these contacts are during times of crisis and distress and can unfold rapidly and in unforeseen directions. This manual cannot predict every aspect of policing, nor can it reasonably anticipate all the potential situations that might be encountered by employees of this Department. This manual does establish a framework of rules and expected performance for all department members in order for us to complete our Mission: Protecting our Community with Exceptional Service.
Each employee is equally important and plays an essential role in our effort and measurement of our accomplishments. Policing in the City of Oxnard involves a partnership with the community. As a partner in the community, all employees will work cooperatively with both members of the Department and the community. Jointly we will work to identify and prioritize problems within the agency and the community to develop solutions to problems of mutual concern. In interacting with one another and with the public, we will be professional and consider how our conduct may impact others.
All employees are required to familiarize themselves with the directives in this manual and when necessary, seek guidance and clarification from a supervisor, first. If there is a question of the interpretation of this manual, that interpretation rests with the Chief of Police. It is strongly encouraged that if there are recommendations for constructive changes to improve efficiency and effectiveness of our service, employees will submit those recommendations. This manual will be updated as necessary to reflect changes in the law, personnel responsibilities, and Department goals and objectives.
As the Chief of Police, I am most proud of our Department and every member of our agency. Each and every day our employees act with the professionalism and dedication that often times goes unnoticed. I am confident that together we can continue to work towards making our agency and community incrementally better tomorrow, than it is today.